Wednesday, December 28, 2016

In the News: real estate supply shortage; Food Elves succeed again

"Local real estate agents are optimistic an increased number of buyers will be looking for homes in the coming months, but there may not be enough houses on the market to meet demand.

"Sales have been brisk," said Paul Yorkis of Patriot Real Estate in Medway. "The biggest problem I see for 2017 is the absolutely overwhelming shortage of housing everywhere in the Boston metropolitan area."

"The Franklin Food Elves are celebrating the results of their 11th food drive, thanks to a change in strategy that bore fruit, said group members.

Though this year's "12 Days of Donating" campaign garnered fewer food items than last year - about 4,000 pounds as compared to 2015's 8,000-pound total - that was the result of an intentional shift. Instead of asking the community for food, the elves asked for money: They were able to collect $13,273 - a sizable increase over last year's $1,943 sum.

The switch from a strictly-food-drive to an appeal for both food and money will allow the Franklin Food Pantry - which receives the drive's donations - to provide better options to those it serves. With the additional funds, the pantry can buy fruits, vegetables, dairy products, eggs and meat - and do so when the need is greatest, not just in December."